In an outcome that few could have predicted, the 13th-seeded Yale Bulldogs orchestrated a stunning upset over the No. 4 seed Auburn Tigers, prevailing with a 78-76 victory in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday. The match, brimming with intensity and dramatic twists, will certainly be remembered as one of the highlights of this year's tournament.
Unlikely Heroes Emerge
John Poulakidas and Samson Aletan stood out as Yale's heroes. Poulakidas, in particular, shined with an impressive 28-point performance, highlighted by a crucial step-back 3-pointer with just over two minutes left, propelling the Bulldogs into the lead. Aletan, on the other hand, made a pivotal block in the dying seconds, thwarting Auburn's final attempt to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
Yale's triumph is not only significant because it sees them through to the second round, where they will face No. 5 seed San Diego State on Sunday, but it also marks the second consecutive year that the Ivy League Tournament champions have toppled one of the tournament's favored teams. This victory is Yale's second in the school's NCAA Tournament history, etching a new chapter in their storied legacy.
The Turning Point
The Bulldogs' path to victory was fraught with challenges, as they faced a 10-point deficit midway through the second half. Yet, they rallied phenomenally in the final five minutes. Poulakidas's pivotal 3-pointer, giving Yale a 73-72 lead, turned the tide permanently in their favor. Auburn, despite having opportunities following a missed free throw by Yale in the final seconds, failed to capitalize. K.D. Johnson's last-gasp attempt for a winning 3-pointer veered off target, sealing Auburn's fate.
Auburn, led by Johni Broome with 24 points and 13 rebounds, had come into the tournament on a high, having cruised through the SEC Tournament the previous week. Many had pegged them as a formidable force capable of challenging the No. 1 overall seed UConn. However, their journey was prematurely halted as they were outscored 20-8 in the climactic stages of the match.
Missed Opportunities for Auburn
Auburn's performance in the final minutes was marred by missed opportunities, particularly from the free-throw line, where they missed five crucial shots in the last 3½ minutes. Their lead evaporated as Yale, spurred on by a 3-pointer from Bez Mbeng, clawed their way back into the game. Poulakidas and Dustin Wolf played critical roles in Yale's resurgence, with Wolf's free throws drawing the game level at 70-70.
Despite a response from Broome, Poulakidas's subsequent 3-pointer ensured Yale never trailed again. The Bulldogs displayed resilience and composure in the final minute, sinking 5 of 6 free throws to clinch victory.
Contributions Across the Board
While Poulakidas's stellar performance will rightly grab headlines, it was a collective effort that propelled Yale to victory. August Mahoney contributed 14 points, while Dustin Wolf added 13 to the cause. For Auburn, Denver Jones notched 17 points and Jaylin Williams contributed 13, but their efforts ultimately fell short.
The game also saw a moment of controversy as Chad Baker-Mazara was ejected following a Flagrant 2 foul in the opening minutes, adding a layer of drama to an already electrifying contest.
Looking Ahead
As Yale prepares to face San Diego State in the second round, they do so knowing they have already defied expectations. Their victory over Auburn is a testament to their skill, determination, and the unpredictable nature of March Madness. Regardless of what lies ahead, the Bulldogs have secured a place in the annals of NCAA Tournament history with a performance that will long be remembered.
